Rivers State Government Bans Harmful Meat Processing Methods

The Rivers State Government has issued a warning to butchers and abattoir operators against the use of vehicle tyres and harmful chemicals in meat processing, stating that offenders risk arrest and prosecution. This directive was communicated by Dr Mercy Iboroma, Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture, during a news briefing at the State Veterinary Hospital in Rumuodomaya, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.

Represented by Dr Godsawill Ukoikpkoko, Director of Veterinary Services, Iboroma highlighted the health risks associated with these practices, including organ failures, cancers, and even mortality. The government has mandated all slaughterhouses to register with the Ministry to validate their operations and ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Ukoikpkoko also mentioned that meat inspection officers have been deployed to enforce these standards and that strict measures are being implemented to prevent the importation of diseased animals. He urged abattoir operators to ensure that slaughter operations are supervised by certified meat inspection officers.